News Corp obtained the union’s submission to the Productivity Commission. It states, "We face the stark reality that in the next six months decisions could be taken that would result in the automotive industry closing before 2020."

The Business Spectator points out that such a scenario may not be politically acceptable to the government. It could see the Coalition losing government at the next election.

The above estimates of job losses also need to be seen in the context of significant cuts in other industries. For example, before the next election in 2016, there are likely to be 150,000 job losses linked to mining investment. And a further 150,000 may be cut from the retail sector because of the increase in online retail.

So, The Business Spectator says, Industry minister Ian Macfarlane may increase his efforts to save the auto sector. He has already said that, in his discussions with the auto makers, everything will be negoatiable.

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